Static compression building

ABSTRACT

A portable, modular building structure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of International Application No.PCT/US2011/053406, filed Sep. 27, 2011; which application claims thebenefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 61/423,326, filed Dec. 15, 2010.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The entire disclosures of International Application No.PCT/US2011/053406, filed Sep. 27, 2011, and U.S. Patent Application No.61/423,326, which was filed Dec. 15, 2010, are incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to a portable structure that ismodular in design, and in particular a lightweight building frame andwall elements that when assembled, form the modular structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawing figures emphasize the general principles of depictedembodiments of the present disclosure and are not necessarily drawn toscale. Reference characters designating corresponding components arerepeated as necessary throughout the figures for the sake of consistencyand clarity.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a portable, modularstructure as disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 a is an exploded isometric view of a framing system for theportable, modular structure of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 b is an isometric view of the framing system of FIG. 2 a andshowing a tensioning system.

FIG. 3 a is an exploded isometric view of a full corner assembly (absenttensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 3 b is an isometric view of an assembled full corner assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 4 a is an exploded isometric view of a side channel assembly(absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 4 b is an isometric view of an assembled side channel assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a portable, modular structure accordingto a second embodiment as disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a framing system of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 a is an exploded isometric view of a gable assembly (absenttensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 b is an isometric view of an assembled gable assembly of theframing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 a is an exploded isometric view of a side channel assembly(absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 b is an isometric view of an assembled side channel assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 a is an exploded isometric view of an upper corner assembly(absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 b is an isometric view of an assembled upper corner assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a portable, modular structure accordingto a third embodiment as disclosed herein.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a framing system of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 a is an exploded isometric view of a first upper corner assembly(absent tensioning members) and an end fascia connection of the framingsystem of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 b is an isometric view of an assembled first upper cornerassembly and an assembled end fascia assembly of the framing system ofFIG. 11.

FIG. 13 a is an exploded isometric view of a side fascia assembly(absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 b is an isometric view of an assembled side fascia assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 a is an exploded isometric view of a second upper cornerassembly (absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 b is an isometric view of an assembled second upper cornerassembly of the framing system of FIG. 11.

FIGS. 15 a-15 h illustrate alternate embodiments of the portable modularstructure as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 16 a and 16 b are schematic views of exemplary panel(s) used withthe structure disclosed herein.

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a portable,modular structure as disclosed herein.

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the framing system of FIG. 17 andshowing a tensioning system.

FIGS. 19 a-19 l are cross section views of configurations of differentdouble capture frame members that may be used with the embodimentsdisclosed herein.

FIGS. 20 a-20 r illustrate aspects of an exemplary process of assemblinga structure, in accordance with an exemplary method of the firstembodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a composite structure in accordance witha fourth embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 22 is an isometric view of a portable, modular structure of thecomposite structure of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is an exploded isometric view of a framing system for theportable, modular structure of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of the framing system of FIG. 23 andshowing a tensioning system.

FIG. 25 a is an exploded isometric view of a full corner assembly(absent tensioning members) of the framing system of FIG. 23, whereinthe full corner assembly is for being mounted to a fixed wall of thecomposite structure of FIG. 21.

FIG. 25 b is an isometric view of an assembled full corner assembly ofthe framing system of FIG. 23, wherein the full corner assembly is forbeing mounted to the fixed wall of the composite structure of FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described below andillustrated in the accompanying figures, in which like numerals refer tolike parts throughout the several views. The embodiments describedprovide examples and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope ofthe invention. Other embodiments, and modifications and improvements ofthe described embodiments, will occur to those skilled in the art andall such other embodiments, modifications and improvements are withinthe scope of the present invention.

The present disclosure is directed to a rigid, portable, mobilestructure including a framing system and tensioning system for use as adwelling, storage facility or general purpose building. Althoughdisclosed primarily within the context of a rigid, portable structureincluding a framing system and tensioning system, the skilled artisanwill recognize that the principles of the present disclosure are not solimited but extend to any type of portable structure that includes aframing system and tensioning system that is lightweight and may beassembled rapidly.

For clarity of discussion, the following three directional definitionsare commonly used when discussing structures and are used throughoutthis application. “Longitudinal” refers to a longitudinal axis “α”oriented in a direction parallel to a first side of a structure.“Lateral” refers to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal directionand to a lateral axis “β” oriented in a direction parallel to a secondside of the structure. “Vertical” refers to a vertical axis “δ” orientedin a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and the lateraldirection. Collectively, the three directional axes establish aCartesian coordinate system. The Cartesian coordinate disclosed isconsistent throughout the disclosure. For purposes of the presentdisclosure, the longitudinal direction a generally refers to a long sideof the structure and the lateral direction β generally refers to a shortside of the structure. (See for example the “directional vane” adjacentFIG. 1 of the drawings. In some configurations, such as square shapedstructures, the longitudinal direction α and lateral direction β may beinterchangeable. In fact, in any of the configurations or embodimentsdisclosed herein, the longitudinal and lateral directions α, β may beinterchangeable. From time-to-time in this description, longitudinallyextending walls or framing components shall be referenced as “front” and“back” solely for the purposes of ease of description. The nomenclatureis not meant to be limiting to the invention, but is meant to facilitatediscussion and explanation of the structure of the disclosure.

A static compression structure according to the present disclosurecomprises a series of rigid panels releasably held together, at least inpart, by compressive forces applied to said rigid panels by a tensioningsystem. According to certain embodiments, the series of rigid panels aresupported by a framing system such that the panels are placed intocompression by a tensioning system associated with the framing system.The structure may be formed when rigid panels are brought together withthe framing system. According to certain embodiments, the framing systemmay generally be comprised of a plurality of panel engaging cap memberscooperatively interconnecting at corner connections and co-linear memberconnections and a plurality of tensioning members cooperating with thecap members. According to at least one embodiment, opposing cap membersengage opposing edges of at least one rigid panel, tensioning membersspan the distance between opposing cap members and, while being placedin tension, compress the therebetween engaged panel. When fullyassembled, wall, roof and floor panels are captured in the framing bycompressive forces applied along at least two axes, for example, thelateral β and vertical δ directions.

With reference now to the drawings, in which like numerals representlike components throughout the several views, a static compressionstructure according to one aspect of the present disclosure is aportable modular structure 10 that may comprise (with reference to FIGS.1, 2 b, 17 and 18) a pair of opposing side wall assemblies 7 a, b, apair of opposing end wall assemblies 8 a, b, a roof assembly 9 a and afloor assembly 9 b. Since the structure 10 is modular, a plurality ofside wall assemblies 7 a, b, end wall assemblies 8 a, b, roof assemblies9 a and floor assemblies 9 b may be assembled to form a structure 10that may have a variety of shapes and sizes (see FIGS. 15 a-15 h). Forexample, whereas FIGS. 1 and 2 b illustrate aspects of a relativelylarge modular structure 10 of a first embodiment, FIGS. 17 and 18illustrate aspects of a relatively small modular structure of analternate embodiment.

Doors 28 and windows may be formed in any wall assembly of the structure10. An example orientation of the components of the embodiment of FIG.1, applying the directional definitions state above, may be as follows:the side wall assemblies 7 a, 7 b extend in the longitudinal direction αand are spaced part in the lateral direction β; the end wall assemblies8 a, 8 b extend in the lateral direction β and are spaced apart in thelongitudinal direction α; and the roof assembly 9 a and floor assembly 9b are spaced apart in the vertical direction δ. Respective assemblies 7a, 7 b, 8 a, 8 b, 9 a, 9 b may be connected at edges of the structure 10to form outer corners of the structure 10. For example, side wallassembly 7 a may be connected with roof assembly 9 a to form an outercorner of the structure 10, and side wall assembly 7 a may be connectedwith end wall assembly 8 a to form an outer corner of the structure 10.The structure 10 may be supported by a plurality of leveling bases 11.It is anticipated that each leveling base 11 will be adjustable suchthat the structure 10 can be positioned on a foundation or base, oruneven ground, and have a level floor.

Each side wall assembly 7 a, 7 b may be comprised of at least one wallpanel 12, a lower cap member 14 and an upper cap member 16. The lowercap member 14 may engage with a lower edge of the wall panel 12 and theupper cap member 16 may engage with an upper edge of the wall panel 12to support the wall panel 12 and form a portion of a framing system 5.Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the lower and upper capmembers 14, 16 are interchangeable with one another. The lower and uppercap members 14, 16 should be of sufficient length to span the length ofat least one wall panel 12, preferably of a length to span at least twowall panels, and most preferably of a length to span three or morepanels.

Each end wall assembly 8 a, 8 b may be comprised of at least one wallpanel 12, a lower cap member 14′ and an upper cap member 16′. The lowercap member 14′ may engage with a lower edge of the wall panel 12 and theupper cap member 16′ may engage with an upper edge of the wall panel 12to support the wall panel 12 and form a portion of a framing system 5.Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the lower and upper capmembers 14′, 16′ are interchangeable with one another. The lower andupper cap members 14′, 16′ should be of sufficient length to span thelength of at least one wall panel 12, preferably of a length to span atleast two wall panels, and most preferably of a length to span three ormore panels.

Each roof assembly 9 a may be comprised of at least one roof panel 13 a,a front cap member 15 and a rear cap member 17. The front cap member 15may engage with a first edge of the roof panel 13 a and the rear capmember 17 may engage with a second edge of the roof panel 13 a tosupport the roof panel 13 a and form a portion of a framing system 5.Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the front and rear capmembers 15, 17 are interchangeable with one another. The front and rearcap members 15, 17 should be of sufficient length to span the length ofat least one roof panel 13 a , preferably of a length to span at leasttwo panels, and most preferably of a length to span three or morepanels.

Each floor assembly 9 b may be comprised of at least one floor panel 13b, a front cap member 15′ and a rear cap member 17′. The front capmember 15′ may engage with a first edge of the floor panel 13 b and therear channel 17′ may engage with a second edge of the floor panel 13 bto support the floor panel 13 b and form a portion of a framing system5. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the front and rear capmembers 15′, 17′ may be interchangeable with one another. The front andrear cap members 15′, 17′ should be of sufficient length to span thelength of at least one floor panel 13 b, preferably of a length to spanat least two panels, and most preferably of a length to span three ormore panels.

The structure 10 may comprise a plurality of vertically extending cornerposts 19 arranged at corners of the structure 10. Alternatively, someembodiments may require no end post at intersecting wall assemblies 7 a,7 b, 8 a, 8 b but may use a flashing or similar sheet metal material toconceal the intersection and offer some insulation benefits. A flashingor similar sheet metal material may offer the benefit of being able toform an intersection between a side wall element 7 and an end wallelement 8 that is a non-perpendicular intersection.

Cap members 14, 15, 16, 17, 14′, 15′, 16′, 17′ are acceptably of avariety of configurations, so long as the configuration provides for atleast the function of cooperating with a panel edge to accomplish theapplication of compression forces and so long as the configuration cancooperate with the tensioning members and the panel to effect thenecessary forces, connections and stability that will be evident to oneof skill in the art reading this disclosure. For example, but withoutlimitation, the cap member may be a flat plate with acceptable panelgripping features and interfacing for the tensioning system. Accordingto some embodiments, including those depicted in the appended drawings,each cap member is of a configuration having an elongated base plate andopposing, upstanding side plates, such that there is defined thereby anelongated, open channel or trough along the length of the cap member.This cap member configuration, which shall be referred to herein as achannel member, provides certain advantages to the current staticcompression structure that make the channel member more preferable than,for example, a flat plate without upstanding side plates (which, asmentioned above may be an acceptable but less preferred cap member). Forexample, but without limitation, the trough/channel of the channelmember may engage with or accept therein an end portion of a panel 12,13 (as opposed to simply engaging the edge of the panel). The trough ofthe channel member may have right-angled inner corners or may have avariety of other cross sectional shapes, including but not limited to,U-shaped, C-shaped, V-shaped, to accommodate the desired shape of theend portion of the respective panel.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, all ofthe channel members (lower 14, 14′, upper 16, 16′, front 15, 15′, andrear 17, 17′) are formed in a particular design referred to sometimesherein as a “double capture frame member” or a “double channelconfiguration”. FIGS. 19 a-19 l illustrate but some of the possiblecross section configurations for the double capture frame members.Double capture frame members may extend in the longitudinal direction α,the lateral direction β, or the vertical direction δ. For discussionpurposes only, double capture frame members extending in thelongitudinal direction α will have reference number 51 or 51′, doublecapture frame members extending in the lateral direction β will havereference number 53 or 53′ and double capture frame members extending inthe vertical direction δ will have reference number 55. For ease ofdescription, the double capture frame members 51 intended fororientation in the longitudinally extending directions shall be referredto as “longitudinal frame members 51” and the double capture framemembers 53 intended for orientation in the laterally extendingdirections shall be referred to as “lateral frame members 53.”Doublecapture frame members support one edge of each of two adjacentperpendicular panels, such as, for example, a floor panel and a wallpanel or a roof panel and a wall panel. The channel members 14, 15, 16,17 may be arranged substantially orthogonal to one another when joinedto form the respective double capture frame member. An example of oneembodiment of a longitudinally extending double capture frame member 51is seen by reference to FIG. 3 a as having an upper channel member 16permanently attached to a rear channel member 17, with their elongated,open channels/troughs oriented longitudinally parallel but facing atabout 90 degrees to one another. It will be understood that, accordingto some embodiments of the present disclosure, each longitudinallyextending double frame member 51 can be interchangeably used for a framemember 51 at any of the four longitudinal edges of the structure 10; forexample each longitudinal double capture frame member 51 may function asany of an upper-front, upper-rear, lower-front and lower-rear framemember. Similarly, it will be understood that, according to someembodiments of the present disclosure, each laterally extending doubleframe member 53, 53′ can be interchangeably used for a frame member 53,53′ at any of the four lateral edges of the structure 10; for exampleeach lateral double capture frame member 53 may function as any of anupper-left, upper-right, lower-left and lower-right frame member.According to some embodiments, the floor panels 13 b may be thicker thanthe wall panels 12 and thicker than the roof panels 13 a, and,therefore, the upper frame members 51, 53 may not be interchangeablewith a lower frame member 51′, 53′. For example, the trough opening ofthe channel member 15′, 17′ receiving the end section of a floor panel13 b may be wider than that of the channel member 15, 17 receivingeither a wall panel 12 or a roof panel 13 a. In such an embodiment,while the lower longitudinal frame member 51′ may still be used oneither side of the floor panel 13 b, it may not be useful as an upperframe member 51 supporting a roof panel 13 a. The same would be true oflateral frame members 53′ in such an embodiment. For an example of alaterally extending double capture frame member 53, refer inter alia toFIG. 2 a. It is not required that the double capture frame member havetwo channel members arranged with their channel openings directedsubstantially perpendicular to one another, and the channel members maybe arranged at any angle relative to each other to formnon-parallelepiped structures. Further, alternatively, channel membersforming a double capture frame member may be arranged non-parallel alongtheir length to facilitate assembly, for example, of pitched or gabledroofs. See for example FIGS. 5-14 discussed below. Similarly, the cornerpost 19 may also be configured as a double capture frame member 55having channel members arranged to be substantially perpendicular andreceive intersecting wall panels 12 at a corner of the structure 1.Alternatively, the channel members forming a double capture corner postframe members 55 may be arranged at an angle relative to one another tofacilitate non-perpendicular wall arrangements.

According to some embodiments, as herein depicted, all of the channelmembers and double capture members are substantially rigid or semi-rigid(for example sufficiently rigid to support its own weight across anintended span without substantial sagging) and may be fabricated from alightweight metal, such as, for example, aluminum or a steel alloy.Alternatively, the channels and double capture members may be made of aheavy durable plastic, such as, for example, polyvinylchloride. All ofthe panels (wall, roof and floor) may be made of lightweight materialand may have a composite structure. For example, an interior of thepanels may be fabricated from a lightweight material such as foam andthe exterior fabricated from a stronger material such as sheet metal.

A tensioning system 20 may be employed to place wall assemblies 7 a, 7b, 8 a, 8 b, roof assemblies 9 a and floor assemblies 9 b into acompressed state. The tensioning system of the depicted embodiment maybe comprised of a plurality of tensioning members 22, 26 and associatedhooks or anchors (as discussed below). Lateral tensioning members 22extend generally in the lateral direction β and vertical tensioningmembers 26 extend generally in the vertical direction δ. The tensioningmembers 22, 26 may be rigid or non-rigid depending on the particularapplication. Preferably, the tensioning members 22, 26 may be non-rigid.The tensioning members 22, 26 are also adjustable in length. As such,the tension associated with each tensioning member 22, 26 may beadjusted. A substantial portion of the tension in the tensioning member22, 26 may be directly transferred to a respective wall assembly 7 a, 7b, 8 a, 8 b, roof assembly 9 a or floor assembly 9 b to place theparticular assembly 7 a, 7 b, 8 a, 8 b, 9 a, 9 b in a state ofcompression. The panels 12, 13 a, 13 b react to being placed incompression to become a stronger and more rigid panel. The tensioningsystem 20 may further comprise a plurality of stabilizing cables 24 thatextend from the structure 10 to locations exterior the structure 10 tofurther anchor the structure 10 in position. The stabilizing cables 24may also be adjustable and when installed, may be in tension. Thestabilizing cables 24 may also apply additional compressive loading tothe assemblies 7 a, 7 b, 8 a, 8 b, 9 a, 9 b. Examples, withoutlimitation, of acceptable tensioning members include (i) a heavy-dutynylon strap with connecting hooks at two displaced locations on thestrap and with mechanical ratcheting mechanisms that (releasably) cinchthe strap to shorten the distance between the two hooks and (ii) acabling system including two cables, each with a connecting hook oreye-loop at one end, joined at their non-hooked ends by a cable cinchingmechanism (such as a turnbuckle) that (releasably) draws the two cablestoward one another to shorten the distance between the two hooks.

FIG. 2 a is an exploded isometric view of a framing system 5 for themodular portable structure 10 according to the depicted embodiments ofFIGS. 1-4. The framing system 5 may be comprised of longitudinal framemembers, lateral frame members, corner brackets, in-line brackets, andcorner posts 19 (if required by the particular embodiment). Since thestructure 10 is modular, the framing system 5 is modular as well. Infact, the modular nature of the framing system 5 enhances the modularnature of the structure 10. The longitudinal frame members 51 may have aconnection element 34 at each end (see FIG. 4 a). The connectionelements 34 of the longitudinal frame member 51 may extend from an outersurface of the double capture frame member 51 and perpendicular to theouter surface (as illustrated and for this particular embodiment, in thelateral direction β). The connection element 34 may facilitateconnection of adjacent longitudinal frame members 51 with the tensioningsystem 20 (see FIG. 4 a). Similarly, according to the depictedembodiment of FIG. 2 a, the lateral frame member 53 may have aconnection element 34 at one end, also extending from an outer surfaceand generally perpendicular to the outer surface (as illustrated and forthis particular embodiment, in the longitudinal direction α). Thelateral frame member 53 of the depicted embodiment of FIG. 2 a, has aconnection element 34 at one end and an elongate connection element 36at the other end (see FIG. 3 a). The elongate connection element 36 maybe used at a corner assembly of the frame and may extend from the end ofthe lateral frame member 53 and in a direction parallel with the channel(as illustrated, in the lateral direction β). In some embodiments, it isanticipated that the double lateral frame member 53 may have an elongateconnection element 36 at both ends. The connection element 34 andelongate connection element 36 may facilitate connection of the lateralframe member 53 with the tensioning system 20.

FIGS. 3 a and 3 b are an exploded isometric view of a corner assemblyand an isometric view of an assembled corner assembly, respectively, ofthe framing system 5 of FIG. 2 a. FIG. 3 b shows elements of thetensioning system 20 at the corner assembly. A typical upper cornerassembly may include a corner post 19, a longitudinal frame member 51, alateral frame member 53, a corner bracket 32, and tensioning members 22,26. When the upper corner assembly is assembled, the longitudinal framemember 51 and the lateral frame member 53 may engage with an upper endof the corner post 19. Similarly, when the lower corner assembly isassembled, the longitudinal frame member 51 and the lateral frame member53 may engage with a lower end of the corner post 19. With reference toa corner assembly only, the longitudinal frame member 51 may have aconnection element 34 at the frame member end forming a portion of thecorner assembly and the lateral frame member 53 may have an elongateconnection element 36 at the frame member end that forms a portion ofthe corner assembly. The corner bracket 32 includes a slot 33 (see FIG.3 a) formed therein and into which are received, side-by-side, theelongated connection element 36 and the connection element 34 ofabutting, perpendicular frame members 51, 53. Alternate embodiments mayhave multiple parallel slots in the single corner bracket 32. In itsmanner of assembly, the combination of corner bracket 32 and twoconnection elements 34, 36 perform at least the dual function ofconnecting frame members 51, 53 and anchoring tensioning members 22, 26.The connection element 34 may be formed with a hook shaped or “J” shapedanchor end 34′ and is intended to interact or engage with the tensioningmembers 26 by providing a connection location for vertical tensioningmembers 26 of the tensioning system and transferring a tensile load fromthe tensioning member to apply a compressive load to panels of theabutting side wall assembly 7 and end wall assembly 8. The elongateconnection element 36 may be formed with a hook shaped or “J” shapedanchor end 36′ and is also intended to interact or engage with thevertical tensioning members 26 by providing a connection location fortensioning members 26 of the tensioning system and transferring atensile load from the tensioning member to apply a compressive load topanels of the abutting side wall assembly 7 and end wall assembly 8.When assembled, the hook portion 34′ of the connection member 34 mayinterface with the hook portion 36′ of the elongate connection member 36to form a common connection element. The corner bracket 32 may begenerally “L” shaped and may comprise a corner bracket anchor element38, which may be hook shaped or “J” shaped and is intended to interactor engage with the lateral tensioning members 22 by providing aconnection location for tensioning members 22 of the tensioning systemand transferring a tensile load from the tensioning member to apply acompressive load to panels of the corner-abutting roof assembly 9 a orfloor assembly 9 b. Generally, the tensioning member 26 that engageswith the hook portions 34′, 36′ will extend in the vertical direction δbetween vertically aligned corners, and the tensioning member 22 thatengages with the corner bracket anchor element 38 will extend in thelateral direction β between adjacent corners. Although the hook portions34′, 36′, 38′ are disclosed as hook shaped elements, the hook/anchorportions 34′, 36′, 38′ may be any shape to satisfy the minimumrequirement of engaging with the tensioning members and bearingsufficient load such that the respective side wall assembly 7, end wallassembly 8, roof assembly 9 a or floor assembly 9 b is placed intocompression.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b are an exploded isometric view of an intermediate;butt-splice assembly and an isometric view of an assembled anintermediate, butt-splice assembly, respectively, of the framing system5 of FIG. 2 a. FIG. 4 b shows elements of the tensioning system 20 atthe butt-splice assembly. The butt-splice assembly joins adjacent,co-linear framing members where they meet intermediate of the cornerassemblies, and interfaces them with the tensioning system 20. Accordingto the depicted embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, an intermediate, butt-spliceassembly between longitudinal frame members 51 may be substantiallysimilar to an intermediate, butt-splice assembly between lateral framemembers 53. The skilled artisan will understand the few distinctionswith reference to the discussion herein.

A typical butt-splice assembly for adjacent, collinear frame members 51may include a pair of adjacent upper longitudinal frame members 51, or apair of adjacent lower longitudinal frame members 51 (alternatively, apair of adjacent upper lateral frame member 53 or a pair of adjacentlower lateral frame member 53) and a butt-splice bracket 30. Withreference to FIG. 4 a, the adjacent ends of the lower longitudinal framemember 51 may have a connection element 34 at each channel end and arebrought together. The connection element 34, similar to that describedpreviously, have hook shaped or “J” shaped anchor end 34′ and isintended to interact or engage with the vertical tensioning members 26by providing a connection location for tensioning members 26 of thetensioning system and transferring a tensile load from the tensioningmember to apply a compressive load to the panels of an abutting sidewall assembly 7. When assembled, the hook portion 34′ of the connectionmember 34 may interface or contact with the hook portion 34′ of theadjacent connection member 34 to form a common connection element. Thebracket 30 may be of a construction similar to corner bracket 32, thatis the butt-splice bracket 30 may be generally “L” shaped and maycomprise a slot 31 (or multiple parallel slots) to accept therein theadjacent connection elements 34, and a bracket anchor element 42, whichmay be hook shaped or “J” shaped and is also intended to interact orengage with the lateral tensioning member 22 by providing a connectionlocation for tensioning members 22 of the tensioning system andtransferring a tensile load from the tensioning member to apply acompressive load to a panel of an abutting roof assembly 9 a or floorassembly 9 b. In its manner of assembly, the combination of butt-splicebracket 30 and two adjacent connection elements 34 perform at least thedual function of connecting adjacent co-linear frame members andanchoring tensioning members 22, 26. Generally, the tensioning member 22that engages with the bracket anchor element 42 of the bracket 30 andextends in the lateral direction β between spaced apart upper sidechannels 16 or between spaced apart lower frame members 51 and thetensioning member 26 that engages with the hook portion 34′ establishedby the adjacent connection elements 34 will extend in the verticaldirection δ between vertically aligned frame members (i.e. either sidewall assemblies or end wall assemblies). Although the hook/anchorportions 34′, 42 are disclosed as hook shaped elements, the hook/anchorportions 34′, 42 may be any shape to satisfy the minimum requirement ofengaging with the tensioning members 22, 26 and bearing sufficient loadsuch that the respective side wall assembly 7, end wall assembly 8, roofassembly 9 or floor assembly 9′ is placed into compression.

Collectively, the frame 5 and its subcomponents (lower and upper sidechannels 14, 16; front and rear channels 15, 17; corner posts 19; cornerbrackets 32; and brackets 30), the tensioning system and itssubcomponents (tensioning members 22, 26), the wall panels 12 that formeither side walls 7 or end walls 8, the panels 13 a, 13 b that form aportion of either the roof assembly 9 a or the floor assembly 9 bcooperatively function to produce a structure that is repeatablyassembled and disassembled, modular, rigid when assembled, andtransported in its component portions. In addition to tying thestructure 10 together, the tensioning system functions to place thewalls, floor and roof of the structure 10 into a compressive state ofloading and strengthen the structure 10.

FIGS. 3 a and 3 b are an exploded isometric view of a full cornerassembly and an isometric view of an assembled full corner assembly,respectively, of the framing system 5 of FIG. 2 a. FIG. 5 b showselements of the tensioning system 20 at the full corner assembly. FIGS.3 a and 3 b illustrate more clearly the arrangement and relation of anupper corner assembly to a lower corner assembly as well as thetensioning members 22, 26 connected with the corner assembly andextending from the corner assembly.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b are is an exploded isometric view and an isometricview, respectively, of cooperating upper and lower co-linear framemember butt-splice assemblies of the framing system 5 of FIG. 2 a. FIG.4 b shows elements of the tensioning system 20 at the butt-spliceassembly. FIGS. 4 a and 4 b illustrate more clearly the arrangement andrelation of an upper channel assembly to a lower channel assembly aswell as the tensioning members 22, 26 connected with the respectivebutt-splice assembly and extending from the assembly. The butt-spliceassemblies of lateral frame members 53 are similar to the butt-spliceassemblies of longitudinal frame members 51. However, according to thedepicted embodiments, the tensioning system associated with the lateralframe member 53 assembly does not comprise longitudinally extendingtensioning members.

Experimental Assembly of the Structure:

The following describes an experimental assembly of the structure 10 ofFIG. 1 and provides one example of a process actually performed forassemblage of the structure 10 of the present disclosure. This assemblyfollows one example embodiment of an assemblage process, and isexperimental in that it was timed and monitored. The present disclosure,and its related inventions are not limited to this sole assembly processnor are they limited by the specific components as used in this assemblyprocess. Rather, one skilled it the art will understand acceptablevariations, based on a reading and understanding of this entirespecification and the accompanying drawings.

The structure 10 of this experimental assembly generally consists ofpre-manufactured cap members 14, 15, 16, 17 and post members 19,pre-manufactured floor, wall and roof panels 12, 13 a, 13 b,pre-manufactured brackets 30, 32, and pre-prepared tensioning straps andcables 22, 26. For this assembly, the pre-manufactured panels 12, 13 a,13 b were polystyrene foam and steel composite panels. The floor panelswere dimensioned, nominally, 16′×46″×6″ and were thicker than the walland roof panels, which were dimensioned, nominally, 8′×46″×4″ and16′×46″×4″, respectively. For this assembly, the cap members werestructural channel members formed as double capture frame members 51,53, 51′, 53′ as earlier defined; and for this assembly, the troughs ofthe floor channel members 15′, 17′ were wider than the troughs for theroof channel members 15, 17. The components arrived at the building siteas a package/kit ready to be assembled. The frame members 51′, 53′containing the floor channel members 15′, 17′ were to be used to form anentire perimeter of a floor assembly 9 b (in some embodiments, the floorassembly 9 b may be comprised of a plurality of connected floorassemblies 9 b).

FIGS. 20 a through 20 r illustrate aspects of the exemplary process ofassembling the structure 10. As assembly begins, an elevated and levelbase (see leveling bases 11) is prepared. As shown in FIG. 20 a, a firstfloor panel 13 b was laid out on respective leveling bases 11,establishing the basic starting point, the location of the first end ofthe structure, and the lateral dimension.

Referring to FIG. 20 b, opposing lower longitudinal frame members 51′were placed on respective bases 11, one on each side of the first floorpanel 13 b, and the opposing lower longitudinal frame members werepressed against the first floor panel capturing the longitudinal sideportions of the first floor panel in the troughs of the respectivechannel members of the lower longitudinal frame members. A pair ofcollinear lateral frame members 53′ were arranged perpendicular to thelongitudinal frame members 51′, pressed onto the lateral end portion ofthe first floor panel 13 b, and joined with first ends of the twoopposing longitudinal frame members 51′ using corner brackets 32. Thedistance between the opposing longitudinal frame members 51′ requiredtwo, collinear lateral frame members 53′, and they were adjoined withone another using a butt-splice bracket 30.

Referring to FIG. 20 c, a second floor panel 13 b was introduced to thetwo opposing frame members 51′, spanning the distance there-between, bysliding the front-side section and rear-side section of the panel intothe trough regions of the respective channel members of the opposingframe members 51′, thereby capturing the longitudinal side portions ofthe second floor panel in the respective channel member. The secondfloor panel 13 b was slid toward the first end of the two opposing framemembers 51′, until the second floor panel abutted the first floor panel13 b. Subsequent floor panel(s) 13 b were similarly introduced and slidinto place in the same opposing frame members 51′, so that the opposingframe members 51′ accommodated three floor panels 13 b. Each panel(whether it be a wall panel 12, roof panel 13 a or floor panel 13 b) wasformed with an interlocking edge by which one panel's edge engages with(actually slips inside) an adjacent panel edge; and this “engagingjoint” was employed by pushing together the adjacent panels.

Referring to FIG. 20 d, as each section of floor section/assembly 9 bwas assembled (e.g., three floor panels 13 b were captured by the pairof opposing longitudinal frame members 51′), a second longitudinal framemember 51′ was abutted, in collinear orientation, to each of the alreadyin place longitudinal frame members. Referring to FIGS. 20 e through 20g, a butt-splice bracket 30 was placed over the adjacent connectionelements 34, and a lateral tensioning member 22 was connected betweenthe opposing frame members 51′ (from bracket connection element 42 toconnection element 42) of the assembled section. The tensioning member22 used on the floor panels was wire cables with an intermediateturnbuckle; and the tensioning member was tightened by hand, throughhand activation of the turnbuckle, to pull the opposing frame members51′ on each side of the structure 10 together and place the first floorsection/assembly 9 b in compression. The tightening of the tensioningsystem 20 provides strength of the system. Next, the floor panels 13 bof the adjacent floor section/assembly 9 b′ were added, in a mannersimilar to the first floor section. As each of the collinear framemembers 51′ of floor was linked together, a bracket 30 captured andsecured each end of the adjacent and connecting collinear frame members.The bracket 30 not only captured the ends of the adjacent collinearframe members 51′, but also provided a compression tie point for thelateral tensioning members 22 to compress the respective floor panels 13b. This procedure was repeated until the floor (all intended sections)was completed, except for including the final pair of lateral framemembers 53′. Two technicians typically handled each floor panel, one ateach side (front/back) edge, placing the opposing side sections into therespective channel member trough and sliding the panel into place.

Referring to FIG. 20 h, the final pair of lateral frame members 53′ forthe floor were installed to cap the exposed lateral edge of the lastinstalled floor panel 13 b. To accomplish this closure, two, collinear,lateral frame members 53′ were arranged perpendicular to thelongitudinal frame members 51′ and joined with the ends of the twoopposing longitudinal frame members 51′ using corner brackets 32. Thefinal pair of lateral frame members 53′ were collinear and adjoinedend-to-end with one another using a butt-splice bracket 30. Again, acable tensioning member joined the opposing longitudinal frame members51′ and was tightened, by hand, to place the captured floor panels incompression. At the corners, the corner brackets 32 were utilized tohold the adjacent connection elements 34, 36, and a lateral tensioningmember connected with the respective anchors 38, 38.

Referring to FIGS. 20 i and 20 k, after the floor assembly 9 b wasconstructed; the wall panels 12 were slid from above into the upwardlyopen troughs of the upwardly facing channel members of the frame members51′, 53′ that now established the perimeter of the floor assembly 9 b.As each wall panel was introduced into the respective upwardly opentrough, it was slid tightly against the adjacent wall panel, takingadvantage of the aforementioned engaging joint. One technician easilyhandled and lifted a single eight foot wall panel 12 into position andslid it into the engaging joint of the adjacent panel 12 already in aninstalled position in the framing system 5.

Referring to FIG. 20 j, one at a time, beginning at one end of thestructure, the upper frame members 51, 53, which are for eventuallycapturing the roof panels 13 a, were placed on top of the wall panels12. As each section of wall assembly 9 b was assembled (e.g., threepanels were captured by the pair of vertically opposed longitudinalframe members 51, 51′), a second frame member 51 was abutted, incollinear orientation, to the respective already in place frame member51; a butt-splice bracket 30 was placed over the adjacent connectionelements 34; and a vertical tensioning member 26 was connected betweenthe vertically opposing frame members 51, 51′ (from bracket connectionanchor 34′ to connection anchor 34′) of the assembled section, as may beunderstood with reference to FIG. 20 l.

Referring to FIG. 20 o, at the corners of the structure 10, before therespective upper, lateral frame members 53 were set in place, cornerposts 19 were installed in each of the corners by sliding the doublechannel post members onto the respective end and side wall panels 12from above. After the end wall sections 8 a that form one end of thestructure 10 and a few side wall sections 7 a abutting the end sections8 a of the structure 10 were in an installed position and capped by therespective upper frame members 51, 53 (e.g., so that the upper portionsof the walls 12 are respectively received in the downwardly open troughsof the downwardly facing channel members of the frame members 51, 53)roof panels 13 a were installed. No special hoisting equipment wasneeded, only a few step ladders. The roof panels were installed much thesame as the floor panels 13 b, with two technicians typically handlingeach roof panel, one at each side (front/back) edge, simultaneouslyplacing the opposing end sections into the respective channel membertrough, with the aid of a step ladder, and sliding the panel toward thefirst end of the structure and into place. Alternatively, the edges ofroof and floor panels 13 a, 13 b may be installed one at a time, byplacing one of the opposing end sections into the respective channelmember trough, followed by placing the other of the opposing endsections into the respective channel member trough. To avoid accidentaltipping of the end wall, a technician was in attendance by the first-endwall until the first section of roof was installed.

Before the final roof panel 13 a was installed, the final wall panels 12for the still open end (wall assemblies 8 b) were installed, allowingfor the final corner posts 19 to be installed. Then, the final roofpanel 13 a was slid into place, and the final two lateral frame members53 were positioned and the respective corner and butt-splice bracketsinstalled. Referring to FIG. 20 q, at the corners, the corner brackets32 were utilized to hold the adjacent connection elements 34, 36, and avertical tensioning member connected with the respective anchors 34′,36′. The vertical tensioning member 26 used on the wall panels 12 was afabric strap with mechanical ratchet; and the tensioning member wastightened by hand, through hand activation of the ratchet, to pull theopposing frame members at the top and bottom of the structure 10together and place the wall sections in compression.

The system of butt-splice brackets 30 and horizontal tensioning members22 used to assemble the floor assembly 9 b were similarly usedthroughout assembly of the roof sections. The final tensioning memberswere connected and all tensioning members hand tightened to place allfloor, wall and roof assemblies in compression in both the lateral β andvertical directions δ. Since all wall panels 12 are interchangeable,final placement of panels containing doors and windows were determinedat the time of installation.

For this experimental installation, taking just over 68 minutes, a 685square foot temporary or semi-permanent structure 10 was erected, usingfour and sometimes five technicians.

End of Experimental Assembly

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a portable modular structure 100according to a second embodiment, as disclosed herein. The structure 100comprises a roof, opposing side panels and opposing end panels. The roofis gabled and has a peak along a central roof line.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a framing system 105 (rigid panelsremoved for clarity) of the structure 100 of FIG. 5. The framing system105 may comprise a plurality of spaced apart longitudinal and lateralcap members, a plurality of corner posts, a tensioning system 120, aplurality of butt-spice brackets and a plurality of corner brackets. Thecap members used in connection with this embodiment may be singlechannel members or double capture/channel frame members. The embodimentsdepicted in the drawings of FIGS. 5-9 are seen to include double captureframe members and reference below to frame members is understood torefer to, without limitation of the invention, such double capture framemembers.

FIGS. 7 a and 7 b are an exploded isometric view and an isometric view,respectively, of a gable assembly of the structure 100 of FIG. 6. FIG. 7b shows elements of the tensioning system 120 at the gable assembly. Thegable assembly 130 includes, according to one embodiment, a doublecapture ridge cap frame 132, a pair of fascia-end frame member 134, 136that are also double capture frame members, and a gable bracket 138, allinterconnecting in a manner apparent by following the principles ofFIGS. 1-4 and referencing FIGS. 7-9. The ridge cap frame member 132, thepair of fascia-end frame members 134, 136 and the gable bracket 138 mayeach comprise a hook or anchor element (following the principles of theembodiments of FIGS. 1-4) that engages with the tensioning system andprovides a connection location for tensioning members of the tensioningsystem. The gable bracket 138 interfaces with the ridge-cap frame member132 and the pair of fascia-end frame members 134, 136 to, in part, tiethe assembly 130 together and increase the rigidity and strength of theassembly 130. According to one embodiment, depicted in these FIGS. 7 a,7 b, the gable frame members are examples of double capture framemembers formed with channel members that are not aligned parallel to oneanother along their lengths. Rather, the channel members diverge inorder to support the gabled roof panels at an angle to the end wallassemblies.

FIGS. 8 a and 8 b are an exploded isometric view of a butt-spliceassembly 160 and an isometric view of an assembled butt-splice assembly160 of the framing system 105 of FIG. 6. The butt-splice assembly 160may comprise a pair of co-linear longitudinal frame members 122 and aside wall bracket 162. The side wall bracket 162 and longitudinal framemembers 122 may each comprise a connecting element provides a connectionlocation for tensioning members of the tensioning system 120. The sidewall bracket 162 interfaces with the frame members 122 to, in part, tiethe assembly 160 together and increase the rigidity and strength of theassembly 160.

FIG. 9 a is an exploded isometric view of an upper corner assembly 180of the framing system of FIG. 6. FIG. 9 b is an isometric view of anassembled upper corner assembly 180 of the framing system of FIG. 6. Thecorner assembly 180 may comprise a longitudinal frame member 122, afascia-end frame member 136, a corner post 124 and a corner bracket 182.The corner bracket 182, channel 122 and fascia-end frame member 136 mayeach comprise a connecting element that engages with the tensioningsystem 120 and provides a connection location for tensioning members ofthe tensioning system 120. The corner bracket 182 interfaces withchannel 122 and the fascia-end frame member 136 to in part tie theassembly 180 together and increase the rigidity and strength of theassembly 180. Generally, the brackets and connection elements depictedin the drawings for the embodiments described in FIGS. 5-14 are similarin principle and function to those described in FIGS. 1-4. The skilledartisan will understand by reference to the drawings and the priorwritten description how the brackets, connection elements, and whenapplicable, the slots within the brackets, cooperate with the tensioningsystem to place the structure into compression.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a portable modular structure 200according to a third embodiment, as disclosed herein, and FIG. 11 is anisometric view of a framing system 205 of FIG. 10. The structure 200comprises a generally pitched roof, opposing side panels and opposingend panels.

The cap members used in connection with this embodiment may be singlechannel members or double capture/channel frame members. The embodimentsdepicted in the drawings of FIGS. 5-9 are seen to include double captureframe members and reference below to frame members is understood torefer to, without limitation of the invention, such double capture framemembers.

FIG. 12 a is an exploded isometric view of a first corner of the framingsystem 220 of FIG. 11 b and FIG. 12 b is an isometric view of anassembled first corner 241 of the framing system of FIG. 11 b. The firstcorner 241 may comprise a compound fascia end assembly 240 and a firstcorner assembly 250. The first corner assembly may comprise a frontfascia frame member 246, a corner post 248, a first fascia-end framemember 244 and a front corner bracket 252. The compound fascia endassembly 240 may comprise a second fascia-end frame member 242 and thefirst fascia-end frame member 244. The front fascia frame member 246,the first fascia-end frame member 244 and the front corner bracket 252may each comprise a connecting element that engages with tensioningmembers of the tensioning system 220 and provides a connection locationfor tensioning members of the tensioning system 220. The front cornerbracket 252 interfaces with first fascia-end frame member 244 and thefront fascia frame member 246 to, in part, tie the assembly 240 togetherand increase the rigidity and strength of the assembly 240. The secondfascia-end frame member 242 and the first fascia-end frame member 244 ofthe compound fascia end assembly 240 may each comprise a connectingelement that engages with the tensioning system 220 and provides aconnection location for tensioning members of the tensioning system 220.

FIG. 13 a is an exploded isometric view of a side fascia assembly 270 ofthe framing system 205 of FIG. 11 b. FIG. 13 b is an isometric view ofan assembled side fascia assembly 270 of the framing system 205 of FIG.11 b. The side fascia assembly 270 may comprise a pair of frame members246 and a side wall bracket 272. The side wall bracket 272 and framemembers 246 may each comprise a connecting element that engages withtensioning members of the tensioning system 220 and provides aconnection location for tensioning members. The side wall bracket 272interfaces with the frame member 246 to, in part, tie the assembly 270together and increase the rigidity and strength of the assembly 270.

FIGS. 14 a and 14 b are isometric views of a second corner assembly 290of the framing system 205 of FIG. 11 b. The second corner assembly 290may comprise a second fascia-end frame member 242, a back end fasciaframe member 296 and a second corner bracket 292. The second cornerbracket 292 and frame members 242, 296 may each comprise a connectingelement that engages with tensioning members of the tensioning system220 and provides a connection location for tensioning members of thetensioning system 220. The second corner bracket 292 may interface withthe frame members 242, 296 to in part tie the assembly 290 together andincrease the rigidity and strength of the assembly 290.

FIGS. 15 a-15 g are alternate embodiments of the portable modularstructure as disclosed herein. For example, FIG. 15 b is an embodimentof a structure having a gable roof As another example, FIG. 15 d is anembodiment of a structure having an “L” shape. As another example, FIG.15 e is an embodiment of a structure having that is generally twostructures placed adjacent each other to produce a structure that iswider than an individual structure. As another example, FIG. 15 f is anembodiment of a structure having an “L” shape and a gable roof.

FIGS. 16 a and 16 b are schematic views of a wall panel or panel usedwith the structure disclosed herein. The panel 12, 13 has a first pairof opposing ends that interface with a frame of a modular structure anda second pair of opposing ends that interface with adjacent panels 12,13. The panel 12, 13 is a composite structure having an “skin” thatcovers an inner panel material. The inner panel material may generallybe a lightweight material, such as, for example, a solid foam or polymermaterial, that strengthens when placed in compression. The outer skinmay be a thin metal, such as, for example, a sheet metal. One end of thesecond pair of opposing ends of the panel 12, 13 may be recessedslightly to engage with an interface element arranged to produce a jointon the other end of the second pair of opposing ends of the panel 12, 13(see FIG. 16 b). Engagement with the interface element may provide animproved fit and sealing against the elements. Caulking may be appliedat the joint to further improve sealing.

For each of the previously discussed embodiments, one or more of thefloor, wall and roof assemblies may optionally be replaced with a fixedstructure, such as a conventional fixed floor (e.g., concrete slab), aconventional fixed wall and/or a conventional fixed roof, to providenumerous other embodiments of this disclosure. For example, FIGS. 21-24,25 a and 25 b illustrate aspects of a fourth embodiment that is like thefirst embodiment (e.g., see FIGS. 1, 2 a, 2 b, 3 a, 3 b, 4 a, 4 b, 19 a,19 b, 19 c), except for variations noted and variations that will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the modularstructure 10 of the first embodiment may be characterized as beingfreestanding, or at least relatively freestanding as compared to amodular structure 310 of a fourth embodiment, which is for being fixedlymounted to a fixed upright structure that may be a fixed wall 307. Thefourth embodiment is like the first embodiment, except that the sidewall assembly 7 a of the first embodiment is replaced with the fixedwall 307 to which the modular structure 310 of the fourth embodiment isattached. The fixed wall 307 may be any suitable conventional wall, suchas a masonry, concrete and/or steel wall that is sufficiently strong forhaving the modular structure 310 mounted thereto. For example, the fixedwall 307 may be part of a conventional building to which the modularstructure 310 is attached.

The framing system 305 of the fourth embodiment is like the framingsystem 5 of the first embodiment, except, for example, at the side forbeing mounted to the fixed wall 307 the corner posts 19 and framemembers 51, 51′ of the first embodiment are replaced with fixedlymountable corner posts 319 and fixedly mountable frame members 351,351′. The corner posts 319 and frame members 351, 351′ each may includeor define an elongated, open channel or trough, or shoulder, along thelength thereof for receiving or otherwise supporting the respective edgeof the associated wall, roof or floor panel 12, 13 a or 13 b. Each ofthe corner posts 319 and frame members 351, 351′ include at least oneflange with one or more holes or notches for having fasteners 375, suchas bolts, extend therethrough. The fasteners 375 are for penetratinginto and becoming fixedly mounted to the fixed wall 307, for mountingthe corner posts 319 and frame members 351, 351′ to the fixed wall. Theframe members 351, 351′ have connection elements 34 at their ends forholding onto respective ends of tensioning members 22.

The framing system 305 of the fourth embodiment is like the framingsystem 5 of the first embodiment, except, for example, the frame members53, 53′ of the first embodiment that would be adjacent to the cornerposts 319 are replaced with frame members 353, 353′ that include atleast one flange with one or more holes or notches for having fasteners375, such as bolts, extend therethrough. The fasteners 375 are forpenetrating into and becoming fixedly mounted to the fixed wall 307, formounting the frame member 353, 353′ to the fixed wall. The frame members353, 353′ further include connection elements 34 at their ends adjacentthe fixed wall 307 for holding onto respective ends of tensioningmembers 22.

The connection elements 34 may be an integral part of the frame members351, 351′, 353, 353′ or the connection elements may be mounted to therespective frame members in any suitable matter, such as by welding. Inaddition or alternatively, the frame members 351, 351′, 353, 353′ mayextend from brackets or flanges that are connected to the frame members351, 351′, 353, 353′ in any suitable manner, such as by welding, by wayof respective ones of the fasteners 375, and/or in any other suitablemanner.

The above examples are in no way intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention. It will be understood by those skilled in the artthat while the present disclosure has been discussed above withreference to exemplary embodiments, various additions, modifications andchanges can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention as set forth in the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular structure comprising: at least a rigidtop panel, a rigid bottom panel, two rigid opposing side panels, a rigidfront panel and a rigid back panel, a tensioning system associated withsaid side panels, said top panel and said bottom panel, said tensioningsystem including a plurality of adjustable length compression applyingmembers adjusted to be in tension about said side panels, said top paneland said bottom panel, said panels and said compression applying memberscooperating to place at least one of said top, bottom, two side, frontand back panels in compression along at least two axes.
 2. The modularstructure according to claim 1, wherein said top, bottom, opposing sidepanels, rigid front panel and rigid back panels are releasably heldtogether as a temporary unitary structure.
 3. The modular structureaccording to claim 1, wherein the tensioning system includes saidtensioning members and a framing system cooperating with said tensioningmembers.
 4. The modular structure according to claim 3, wherein theframing system includes a plurality of rigid channel members and aplurality of brackets.
 5. The modular structure according to claim 4,wherein each of the rigid top panel, the rigid bottom panel, the tworigid opposing side panels, the rigid front panel and the rigid backpanel have an opposing upper edge and lower edge and opposing sideedges.
 6. The modular structure according to claim 5, wherein each upperedge has a rigid channel member associated therewith and each lower edgehas a rigid channel member associated therewith.
 7. The modularstructure according to claim 6, wherein the rigid channel members aresized and configured to receive either an upper edge or a lower edge ofthe panels.
 8. The modular structure according to claim 7, wherein thetensioning members are adjustable tensioning members.
 9. The modularstructure according to claim 7, wherein a tensioning member extendsbetween an upper edge and a lower edge of a panel.
 10. The modularstructure according to claim 1, the modular structure comprising atleast two opposing side walls, a front wall and a back wall, each of thetwo opposing walls being formed from at least one side panel, the frontwall being formed from at least one front panel and the back wall beingformed from at least one back panel.
 11. A framing system for a modularstructure, comprising: a plurality of longitudinally extending channels,each channel comprising a connection element disposed at each end of thechannel; a plurality of laterally extending channels, each channelcomprising a connection element at a first end and an elongateconnection element at a second end; a plurality of vertically extendingcorner posts, each corner post arranged at an intersection of alongitudinally extending channel and a laterally extending channel; aplurality of corner brackets, wherein the longitudinal channel, theconnection element of the longitudinal channel, the lateral channel andthe elongate connection element of the lateral channel cooperate withthe corner bracket to establish a corner assembly connecting thelongitudinally extending channel, the laterally extending channel andthe corner post together to form either an upper corner or a lowercorner of the framing system at a respective corner post, whereinadjacent upper corners are connected by either a longitudinallyextending channel or a laterally extending channel and adjacent lowercorners are connected by either a longitudinally extending channel or alaterally extending channel; and a plurality of upper corner assembliesare vertically aligned with a respective lower corner assembly and areconnected to form the framing system of the modular structure.
 12. Theframing system according to claim 11, wherein at the corner assembly,the connection element of the longitudinal channel and the elongateconnection element of the lateral channel cooperate to form anattachment feature.
 13. The framing system according to claim 12,wherein the attachment feature is a hook shaped attachment feature. 14.The framing system according to claim 12, wherein a tensioning cableextends between an attachment feature of an upper corner and anattachment feature of a lower corner of a respective corner post. 15.The framing system according to claim 12, wherein the corner bracketcomprises a slot for receiving the attachment feature.
 16. The framingsystem according to claim 11, wherein the corner bracket furthercomprises a lateral attachment feature.
 17. The framing system accordingto claim 16, wherein a tensioning cable extends in a lateral directionbetween a lateral attachment feature of a corner bracket of a cornerbeam and a lateral attachment feature of an adjacent corner bracket ofan adjacent corner beam.
 18. The framing system according to claim 11,further comprising at least two longitudinally extending channels or atleast two laterally extending channels between adjacent upper corners,and at least two longitudinally extending channels or at least twolaterally channels extending between adjacent lower corners.
 19. Theframing system according to claim 18, wherein adjacent longitudinalalignment flanges or adjacent lateral alignment flanges cooperate toform a vertical attachment feature that is received by a slot in aconnecting bracket.
 20. The framing system according to claim 19,wherein a tensioning cable extends vertically between a pair respectiveattachment features.
 21. The framing system according to claim 11,wherein the modular structure is a parallelpiped modular structure. 22.A portable structure, comprising: a frame comprised of either a pair ofspaced apart longitudinal channels or a pair of spaced apart lateralchannels with an upper edge of a wall element supported by one of eitherof the pair of channels and a lower edge of the wall element supportedby the other of either of the pair of channels; a plurality ofconnecting vertical walls that form the portable structure, eachvertical wall comprising a wall element supported by a respective frame;and a plurality of corners of the portable structure, each cornercomprising a pair of vertical walls and a vertical corner member,wherein adjacent walls are connected by a pair of connection flanges 23.A modular building structure comprising: a bottom panel; a first sidepanel adjacent a top edge of said bottom panel; a second side paneladjacent a bottom edge of said bottom panel; a first edge member joiningthe bottom panel and first side panel at their adjacent edges; a secondedge member joining the bottom panel and the second side panel at theiradjacent edges; a plurality of compression applying members extendingfrom said first edge member to said second edge member.
 24. A framingsystem for use with the modular structure according to claim 10comprising: a plurality of longitudinally extending channels, wherein apair of adjacent longitudinally extending channels and a bracket form aside wall assembly; a plurality of laterally extending channels, whereina pair of adjacent laterally extending channels and a bracket form anend wall assembly; a plurality of corner assemblies, each cornerassembly comprising an intersecting longitudinally and laterallyextending channels, a corner post and a corner bracket, wherein thelongitudinally extending channels, the laterally extending channels, theside wall assemblies, the end wall assemblies and the corner assembliesare arranged relative to one another to form the framing system.
 25. Amodular building structure comprised of rigid panels releasably heldtogether, at least in part, by compressive forces, applied to said rigidpanels by a tensioning assembly, said compressive forces being appliedto rigid panels along at least two axes of the structure.